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The Joy of Easy Cooking: A Lazy Chef’s Favourite Recipe

As someone who enjoys the concept of cooking more than the actual effort involved, I’ve often found myself searching for simple, satisfying meals that don’t require an extensive culinary repertoire. Over the years, I’ve stumbled upon a few gems—dishes that are as effortless to prepare as they are delicious. One such recipe has become a staple in our household; it’s quick, easy, and, best of all, it never gets old!

The Recipe: One-Pan Pasta

This delightful dish has all the hallmarks of a lazy cook’s dream: minimal prep time, minimal washing up, and the ability to adapt to whatever ingredients you have on hand. Here’s how you can whip it up in a jiffy.

Ingredients:

• 300g pasta (any shape will do)
• 400g chopped tomatoes (canned)
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• Olive oil
• 2 cups of vegetable or chicken stock
• Any vegetables you fancy (spinach, bell peppers, courgettes, for example)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Grated cheese (optional)

Method:

1. Prep the Ingredients: Start by finely chopping your onion and mincing the garlic. If you’re using fresh vegetables, chop them into bite-sized pieces.

2. Heat the Oil: In a large pan, drizzle a bit of olive oil and place it over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened. This should take about five minutes.

3. Add Garlic: Once the onion is translucent, toss in the minced garlic and stir for about a minute until fragrant.

4. Combine Ingredients: Now, it’s time to add the chopped tomatoes, stock, pasta, and any vegetables you’ve chosen. Season with salt and pepper. Give everything a good stir to combine.

5. Cook the Pasta: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer. Stir occasionally to ensure the pasta doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pan. Cook for around 10-12 minutes or until the pasta is al dente.

6. Final Touches: When the pasta is cooked, check the seasoning and adjust if necessary. If you like, sprinkle some grated cheese on top before serving.

This recipe is incredibly versatile; you can easily swap out ingredients based on what’s in the fridge. Leftover roast chicken? Toss it in! A bunch of wilting spinach? Perfect! This adaptability not only keeps things interesting but also makes use of items that might otherwise go to waste.

Why It Never Gets Old

After years of making this dish, I can confidently say that it never gets dull. The base of tomatoes and stock provides a lovely, rich flavour that can be tailored to suit our changing tastes. For an extra kick, you might add a pinch of chilli flakes or a splash of balsamic vinegar. The one-pan aspect means that clean-up is straightforward; a definite plus for any lazy cook!

This recipe has not only stood the test of time in our household, but it has also become a beloved gathering point for family and friends. There’s something about sharing a hearty meal, effortlessly prepared, that brings a sense of warmth and togetherness.

Conclusion

Being a lazy cook isn’t about skimping on flavour or quality; it’s about making smart choices that lead to satisfying meals without exhausting yourself in the process. This one-pan pasta dish epitomises that ethos. So, whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned pro looking for something easy yet delicious, I encourage you to try this recipe. It just might become your new go-to comfort food, just as it has for me. Happy cooking!

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